The calm after the storm

I feel as though the past few months have been a roller coaster.  Constant ups and downs, sharp curves, and even getting flipped upside down.  I'm exhausted and emotionally drained.

I'm praying that life will slow down now and I can get back to being me.  In the midst of all the craziness of life, I decided to resign from my job.  It was a very hard decision to make because I truly enjoyed working part time and loved the people.  But,  I wanted to be fair to the company.  They had been so generous with allowing me the time away from the office to help with caring for my family.  I didn't know how long it would take and I didn't want to take advantage of their kindness, so I resigned.

A perk of my new found freedom, I decided that I would take a road trip, all by myself!!!  I loved it!  I drove up to visit my brother, sister-in-law and nephew in Indiana.  It took me about 10 1/2 hours and I only stopped once :)  I had the joy of staying there a few days and getting some extra cuddles in with my adorable perfect nephew.  I was in heaven.  I even babysat one afternoon so Michael and Amanda could go on a date.

After a few days, I headed to Pittsburgh for a quick stop on my way to West Virginia.  I got to take my Pap out on a lunch date.  It was awesome :)

I <3 my Pap!

Then, I ended my trip at our place on the Greenbrier River with Will's side of the
family.  As usual, it was a wonderful time.  We did some yard work to tidy up the place, then ate A LOT and road our bikes.  We did a 27 mile ride one day....ouch!!! My butt was pretty sore that night!

Yard Work

I'm helping Charles grill some burgers and hotdogs

Derik (Will's cousin), Mark (my father-in-law) and Brent (brother-in-law) 

TOOT Festival we went to

Julie, Charles and me on our bike ride

The gang before our ride

Me and my bike :)

A tunnel on the trail

My mother-in-law and me :)

I had a great trip - and found it pretty fun driving myself all over the place.  Can't wait to do it again soon!!